Immigration status bill headed to Tenn. governor

Published: Wednesday, June 9, 2010 at 6:25 p.m.

Last Modified: Wednesday, June 9, 2010 at 6:25 p.m.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — A proposal to require Tennessee jailers to determine whether inmates are in the country illegally is headed to the governor for his consideration.

Lawmakers reconciled their differences on the legislation and sent it to Democratic Gov. Phil Bredesen on Wednesday. He's expected to review the measure once it reaches his desk.

It would require jailers to provide information if a person's citizenship status cannot be determined from documents in the individual's possession when arrested or if the person is illegally in the country.

<p>NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — A proposal to require Tennessee jailers to determine whether inmates are in the country illegally is headed to the governor for his consideration.</p><p>Lawmakers reconciled their differences on the legislation and sent it to Democratic Gov. Phil Bredesen on Wednesday. He's expected to review the measure once it reaches his desk.</p><p>It would require jailers to provide information if a person's citizenship status cannot be determined from documents in the individual's possession when arrested or if the person is illegally in the country.</p><p>Republican Senate sponsor Delores Gresham of Somerville says "it is merely information sharing."</p><p>Under the agreement, no counties are exempt, and jailers wouldn't have to deport anyone.</p><p>Supporters of the legislation say it's necessary because many jailers — particularly those in rural areas — don't always report such information.</p>